Governor William Pitkin School

Pitkin is suppose to be one of the better K-6 schools in town but CMT scores are dropping. Classes are crowded, normal class size was 17 kids per teacher but than number has increased. There is no advanced placement testing. The PTA Board is a click and unwelcoming. They run events like Dictators and still wonder why they get no new parents/volunteers. They increased the PTA fee, under the guise of generating new members but it was used to give "kick-backs" to the parents of members for school trips. This is the only school in town that I know of that no longer subsidies one field trip for every student. The Principal is new and nice, but very politically correct. So that means, knowing the issues with the PTA she is unwilling to step in and voice her opinion. The office staff is nice, but new so expect errors with messages/communication. Most teachers are nice, some need to retire. The tone and words that some of the teachers use to speak to children can be harsh and belittling. And despite some efforts bullying exists.

The teachers are wonderful, and my kids love them. I'm impressed with the level of development my kids have achieved since they started attending this school. However on Thursday 3/10/11, I was at work planning spring vacation for my kids and called the school to enquire the dates the kids would be off. I was greeted by this lady with the most sarcastic tone of voice, telling me that its posted on the school's website, and on the yellow paper calender that was sent home with the kids. If that's the tone of voice she has with a parent, I can only imagine how she may interact with the kids at school. She knew nothing of the circumstances why I had to call instead of visiting the web site or looking at the calender that was sent home. I'm glad she pointed out the web site, for in searching for it, I found this avenue in which I can vent my disgust with what transpired. I hope someone enquire who she is, and ban her from answering the phone until she's properly trained. It's not always what you say, but how you say it.
--Submitted by a parent

My son's teacher is great. She works with him every day to learn and understand the school's rule about being safe, being respectful and responsible. While we are still new to the school, and are still working on adjustment issues, I feel better knowing that his teacher is there for him.
--Submitted by a parent

I think this is great becuse i go their and not just becuse i go their its because the school has school spirt and we follow the rules like be safe , be responsible and , be respectful in the school so they should not just have it at Pitkin school they should it every wear for kids at our age should know how to act
--Submitted by a student

This school helped me overcome my reading problems and my lack in spelling. I loved the art teachers and music teaches at his school and it was through their guidance that I now an going for a film degree in college. I will say that this school will work with you if you think positive and not seek to blame them for your child's issues or lack in education. From my experience, those children with active parents did better than those who didn't in this school. At times this school and all the others in town have suffered from the issues with the town board and administration, but the staff do care about their students and always fought to correct any ills caused by town politics in the board of ed.
--Submitted by a student

The school is not prepared or properly funded to deal with anything out of the ordinary. I'm moving to get my child help with her reading. They simply don't have the resources if your child needs extra help, it's like pulling teeth trying to get things done.
--Submitted by a parent

I honestly cannot say enough about the staff at the school. The people there truly care about my childrens education, but as important is how much they care about each child. My son has had some difficulty both physically and mentally this year and they have worked with us with incredible dedication towards finding the best solutions and accomodations possible. The sense of community and care are wonderful at Pitkin.
--Submitted by a parent

Last year my 6 year old special needs son had many difficulties and I had a hard time getting him the help that he needed. After many In School Suspensions, being sent home and numerous phone calls this year my son is doing awesome. He now has a Para that works very well with him and he is getting the help he needs. They have a new school psychologist who I can call anytime and the principal is also more understanding of a speical needs kid. He has come a long way and is always showing improvements so I would recommend Pitkin School to others.
--Submitted by Barbara, a parent